Responsible for enforcement in our area is the Islip Marine Division. In 1998 I spoke with that division and was told that they have obtained a noise meter and one officer is properly trained in it's use. But it is low priority.

The officer I spoke with suggested that I stand at the bay, obtain the License number (1/2 mile away). Then call the Marine Division and they would investigate. Well, the logistics seem a bit odd. By the time the Police Boat arrives, that speedboat going 70mph is 35 miles away. Not workable.

Spoke with another officer of the Marin Division in Feb. 1999. He voiced some frustration with the enforceability of regulations.

• Most speed boats have "Quiet Switches" that allow speed boat owners to place in-line extra mufflers thereby bringing the boat in compliance with regulations when a police-boat approaches.
• Speeds of 60 to 90 mph pose problems chasing these boats. Enforcement of the 45mph speed limit in the bay's channels is a manpower and equipment problem

Following is a comment from the boating community received from E.M. on 7/29/99:

"So what if someone has a boat that is too loud. If they are running on the water and your on shore, what is your problem. Those mufflers are intended to quiet a boat down when going through a harbor or a channel with houses. Is this a case of jealousy because you don't own one of those "Cigarette" boats, or is it that you don't have anything else better to do than to make
other peoples lives miserable. Next time I'am out on the water and I happen to see someone with a noise meter, I will make it a point to open up my exhaust and peg your meter."

Site under construction. More to follow, or please e-mail. I'd like to get some comment from the Marine Division.